Cass Gilbert

Date of Birth: November 24, 1859

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: May 17, 1934

Biography

Cass Gilbert was an influential American architect, born in Zanesville, Ohio, on November 24, 1859. He is best known for his work in the Beaux-Arts tradition and for shaping the architectural landscape of the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Among his most notable works are the Woolworth Building in New York City, which was the world’s tallest building when completed in 1913, and the United States Supreme Court Building in Washington, D.C. Gilbert’s early career began with an apprenticeship under the prominent architect, Henry Hobson Richardson. He later established his own firm in St. Paul, Minnesota, where he gained recognition for his design of the Minnesota State Capitol. The success of this project catapulted him to national fame and led to commissions across the country. Throughout his career, Gilbert was an advocate for city planning and urban beautification, contributing to the City Beautiful movement. He believed in the importance of architecture as a means to uplift society and improve the quality of life in urban areas. Gilbert’s legacy is preserved in the numerous public buildings, skyscrapers, and monuments that continue to define the skylines of many American cities.

5 Interesting Facts about Cass Gilbert

1. Cass Gilbert designed the Woolworth Building in New York City, which was the tallest building in the world at the time of its completion in 1913.

2. He played a significant role in the City Beautiful movement, advocating for the beautification and planning of urban spaces.

3. Gilbert’s design of the United States Supreme Court Building is considered one of his masterpieces and remains a symbol of judicial authority and dignity.

4. He was awarded the Gold Medal by the American Institute of Architects in 1933, recognizing his significant contributions to the field of architecture.

5. Gilbert also designed several prominent public buildings, including the Saint Louis Art Museum and the West Virginia State Capitol.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Cass Gilbert

1. “Architecture is not a business, not a career, but a crusade and a consecration to a joy that justifies the existence of the earth.”

2. “The skyscraper is the new cathedral of our times, a symbol of our age, representing the spirit of modernity and progress.”

3. “Beauty and function must go hand in hand, for architecture is not only about creating structures but also about shaping the human experience.”

4. “The true purpose of architecture is to create a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the natural world.”

5. “In every building, there should be a sense of permanence, a reflection of the ideals and aspirations of a society.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Cass Gilbert’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but his significant contributions to major architectural projects and his influential role in the field suggest he was well-compensated for his work.

Children

Cass Gilbert had three children: Emily Gilbert, Julia Finch Gilbert, and Cass Gilbert Jr. His son, Cass Gilbert Jr., followed in his footsteps and became an architect as well.